Instructing a barrister direct

In some areas of law, it is now possible for you to engage the services of a barrister without also instructing a solicitor. Barristers can now be instructed directly by the public, foreign lawyers, other professionals, and commercial organisations without incurring the additional expense of a solicitor.

The Bar Standards Board provides guidance for lay clients on instructing a barrister directly.

Pricing Structures

Brief fee and refresher

A brief fee is a fixed fee which covers preparation for a trial and the first day. A refresher is a fixed fee for each subsequent day of the trial (which includes ongoing preparation).

Capped fee

A barrister will charge an amount of money per hour (an hourly rate), but agree with the client that the total amount will not be more than a set level.

Conditional fee agreement

A client will only pay a barrister for work if they receive compensation as a result of the proceedings. Conditional fee agreements are popular with consumers and often referred to as “no win, no fee” agreements.

Fixed fee

A barrister will charge a client a set amount of money for work. There may also be circumstances where additional fees are charged.

Fact Sheets

We have fact sheets to give transparent information to our direct access clients in the most frequently used areas of direct instruction. Please click on the relevant link below, or if you want more information about fee quotes or timescales please contact the clerks:

Employment Law Cases

Financial Disputes in Divorce Cases

Inheritance Act Advice

Motoring Cases

Winding Up Petitions

Who does direct public access work in Chambers?

The members of Chambers who undertake direct public access work are listed below. Their own pages will give details of the areas in which they specialise.

Our team of clerks are always happy to discuss your requirements. Please contact either Stuart Sellen, Craig Brown or Cliff Strong on 020 7404 7000 or by email: clerks@thomasmore.co.uk.